Disaster Preparedness

Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You Can

Everyone can contribute to their community by planning for a disaster, whether it is at home, at school, or in the workplace. A few moments of prep could save heartache for you, your family, friends, neighbors, and even pets if a disaster were to strike.

Just one conversation can be the beginning of a plan to protect yourself and those around you. Discuss the disaster situations you could face, and how you’ll contact or find each other if you get separated. Designate a meeting for your family that is convenient and easy to find.

Step 1: Discuss these 4 questions as a family to begin building your plan:

How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?

What is my shelter plan?

What is my evacuation route?

What is my family/household communication plan?

Step 2: Consider your unique situation and how it will affect your plan. Here are some factors to keep in mind while you create your plan:

Different ages of members of your household

Responsibilities for assisting others

Locations frequented

Dietary needs

Medical needs including prescriptions and equipment

Disabilities or access and functional needs including devices and equipment

Languages spoken

Cultural and religious considerations

Pets or service animals

Households with school-aged children

Step 3: Fill out a Family Emergency Plan. Having this information written down will help you remember what to do in an emergency. The documents here are a good place to organize and record your emergency plan:

Family Emergency Communication Guide

Emergency Alerts and Warnings

Wallet Sized Emergency Communication Plan

Emergency Plan for Parents

Emergency Plan for Kids

Emergency Plan for Pet Owners

Emergency Plan for Commuters

Protect Critical Documents and Valuables

Document and Insure your Property

Emergency Financial First Aid Kit

Step 4: Practice your plan with your family. Discuss how an emergency situation may be different than the situation practiced, as well as the things that went well and those that could use improvement.

Helpful Documents

Below are a few documents to help you and your family plan for the worst: